The widest used modality for detection of breast cancer is Mammography. Automated cancer detection is a tedious work because there are many types of high intensity artifacts found in MLO views of mammograms. So, preprocessing here becomes an essential step for successful classification. To get the region of interest, we carried out all the steps including removal of pectoral muscle as it has high intensity level similar to the intensity level of abnormalities already present in the mammogram so if we will take the input image as it is including the pectoral muscle and other artifacts it will give inaccurate results. This paper proposes a methodology for segmenting and removing the pectoral muscles using a technique named information gain based fcm. The proposed algorithm combines fuzzy C mean and neutroscopic L-means methods for correctly extracting the pectoral muscle. To validate the work, the proposed methodology is tested on different mammographic images of MIAS database and the results obtained nearly follows that marked by an expert radiologist. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated using several quantitative metrics, including Hausdorff Distance (HD), Mean Error (ME1), Relative Foreground Area Error (RFAE), Misclassification Rate (ME2), Extraction Error Rate (EER), and Region Non-Uniformity (RNU).
This study aimed to evaluate the pressure exerted on mandibular soft tissues by the removable components of two different extracoronal precision attachment systems in distal extension cases (Kennedy Class II). A total of 10 patients presenting with bilateral mandibular edentulous areas were included. The first and second premolars were prepared as abutment teeth. A rigid attachment system (MK1) was applied on one side, while a resilient attachment system (ASC 52) was placed on the opposite side. Pressure measurements were obtained immediately after prosthesis placement and after six months of function. Small perforations were created in the removable components at both proximal and distal points. These areas were analyzed using an optical microscope connected to a digital imaging system, allowing measurements in microns. The findings indicated no statistically significant differences between proximal and distal points in both attachment systems immediately after insertion. However, after six months, significant differences were observed in the rigid attachment system (MK1), particularly at distal points. Within the limitations of this study, resilient attachment systems demonstrated a more favorable pressure distribution on soft tissues compared to rigid attachment system.
Background: At present, clinical practice teaching in nursing is confronted with challenges such as inaccurate goal positioning, lack of systematic design and effective evaluation system. As a systematic instructional design framework, the ADDIE model, when combined with the nurse-mini-CEX which has the function of teaching assessment, can optimize the teaching process and enhance the clinical practice ability and comprehensive quality of trainee nurses. Objective: To explore and analyze the effect of ADDIE combined Nursing-Mini-CEX teaching model in the clinical teaching of undergraduate nursing students in the department of nephrology. Methods: Fifty-eight undergraduate Nursing interns in the Department of Nephrology from December 2023 to November 2024 were selected into the study and divided into control group and observation group, 29 in each group according to random number table method. The control group was taught by traditional teaching methods, and the observation group was taught by ADDIE combined nursing -Mini-CEX teaching mode. The results and teaching satisfaction of two groups of undergraduate nursing interns were evaluated. Results: The theoretical knowledge, clinical practice test scores and teaching satisfaction of the observation group were better than those of the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The application of ADDIE combined Nursing-Mini-CEX teaching mode in the practice teaching of renal department nursing undergraduates can improve the theoretical knowledge and clinical practice assessment scores, and thus enhance the teaching satisfaction, which is worthy of promotion.
Background: The Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV programme was introduced as a comprehensive package of interventions to reduce Mother–to–Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV. The programme offers an opportunity to identify pregnant women and their partners to prevent the transmission of HIV to the baby. This study is aimed at assessing the knowledge and practices of married HIV positive male partners towards PMTCT. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study that interviewed 220 HIV positive male partners using an interviewer-administered, pre-testeds questionnaire. Results: The study revealed that 145 respondents (65.9%) were between the age group of 31 and 40 years. More than half 130 (59%) of the respondents were Knows of PMTCT, while 135 (61.4%) of the respondents had good practice of PMTCT. Respondents with formal education were 1.5 times more odds to be Knows of the PMTCT programme than those having informal education [p=0.03, AOR=1.53, 95%CI = (1.08-4.54)]. Similarly, respondents with formal education were 2.5 times more likely to practice the PMTCT programme than those having informal education [p=0.03, AOR=2.53, 95%CI = (1.63-4.54)]. In addition, Male partners who were above 30 years of age were 3 times more likely to participate in PMTCT activities compared to those who were less than 30 years [p=0.02, AOR=2.17, 95%CI = (0.01-4.12)]. Conclusion: While many male partners know about the PMTCT program, significant gaps exist in both their knowledge and active participation. To improve PMTCT uptake and decrease MTCT, it is essential to strengthen male involvement through targeted, culturally sensitive interventions.
Background: Carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (CPKP) has emerged as a major global concern due to extensive antimicrobial resistance, limited therapeutic options, and significant mortality rates. This study aimed to characterize the molecular mechanisms of carbapenem resistance and assess the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of CPKP isolates collected from Tay Nguyen Regional General Hospital, Vietnam. Methods: Seventy-nine non-duplicate K. pneumoniae isolates resistant to at least one carbapenem were analyzed using the modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM) and real-time PCR to detect blaKPC, blaNDM, blaVIM and blaOXA-48-like genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the disk diffusion method following CLSI 2023 guidelines. Results: Among the 79 isolates, 62 (78.5%) were carbapenemase producers. The most prevalent carbapenemase gene was blaNDM (65.6%), followed by blaOXA-48-like (48.4%), blaKPC (35.9%) and blaVIM (32.8%). Co-harboring of multiple genes was common blaNDM+OXA-48-like (29.7%), blaKPC+NDM (21.9%). Resistance rates exceeded 90% for β-lactams, cephalosporins and quinolones, while all isolates remained susceptible to colistin. Conclusions: The predominance of blaNDM and blaOXA-48-like genes highlights the evolving resistance landscape in Vietnam. Strengthening molecular surveillance, infection control and rational antibiotic use is essential to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens.
Background: Infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is responsible for the terminal stage of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which was a latent infection until the introduction of antiretroviral treatment. The progression to chronicity of this infection leads to chronic inflammation that facilitates the occurrence of opportunistic infections such as herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (Herpes Simplex Virus-1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus-2 (HSV-2)). The lack of data on these viruses has led to the present study. Objective: aimed to determine the seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 in children born HIV-positive to HIV-positive mothers with an undetectable viral load and receiving antiretroviral treatment at the Yaoundé University Teaching Hospital (YUTH). Method: The study was cross-sectional conducted after 12 months of follow up. After administering a questionnaire, a blood sample was obtained from each participant in an EDTA tube and analyzed using rapid diagnostic tests for the detection of specific IgM/IgG antibodies. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2019 and SPSS version 25. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. Result: Among the 74 participants, 51 were female, resulting in a sex ratio of 0.45. In the population of children born HIV-positive, the seroprevalence was 93.24% (n=69) for IgG anti-HSV-1, 93.24% (n=69) for IgG anti-HSV-2, and 93.24% (n=69) for IgG anti-HSV-1/-2. The seroprevalence of IgM anti-HSV was found to be zero; however, the prevalence of IgG anti-HSV was 93.24%. The seroprevalence of HSV-1/-2 was associated with the age of the participants. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the herpes simplex virus circulates in Cameroon, with a high presence of anti-HSV-1/-2 antibodies in the population born HIV-positive to HIV-positive mothers. It becomes important to implement systematic diagnostic measures for children born HIV-positive to HIV-positive mothers, and its transmission is associated with various risk factors.
Background: Over the past three decades, infections following cesarean sections have increased markedly, with surgical site infections (SSIs) emerging as a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. This issue is especially critical in low- and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia, where reliable data on the magnitude and determinants of post-cesarean infections remain limited. These infections contribute to prolonged hospital stays, higher healthcare costs, and elevated risks for both mothers and newborns. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of post-cesarean section infections and identify associated risk factors in selected hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2024. Methods: An institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in selected hospitals between June 10 and August 30, 2024. A total of 472 medical records of women who underwent cesarean sections from January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2023, were reviewed using a systematic random sampling method. Hospitals were selected using simple random sampling. Data were entered and cleaned using Epi Info version 7.2.1.0 and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with post-cesarean infections. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and statistical significance was determined at a p-value < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of post-cesarean section infection was 17%. Key factors significantly associated with increased risk included: presence of clinical signs of infection (AOR = 4.37, 95% CI: 3.25-6.22), underlying co-morbid conditions (AOR = 4.72, 95% CI: 3.34-6.23), and operation duration longer than 30 minutes (AOR = 3.43, 95% CI: 2.32-4.43). Conclusion and Recommendation: The prevalence of post-cesarean infections in Addis Ababa was alarmingly high. Major risk factors included signs of infection, co-morbid illnesses, prolonged labor (>24 hours), previous cesarean deliveries, and extended operative time. To reduce infection rates, hospitals should enforce strict infection prevention protocols and maintain high standards of surgical practice.
Preparing the body's systems for spontaneous regression of cancer tumors with intelligent cell therapy is a modern and promising approach in oncology based on the use of specially modified cells of the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. CAR-T cell therapy is a technology in which T lymphocytes are taken from a patient, genetically modified to express special receptors capable of recognizing antigens on the surface of tumor cells, and then returned to the body to fight cancer. TIL therapy uses lymphocytes extracted directly from the tumor, which are then activated and scaled in vitro and reintroduced into the patient to fight cancer cells. Dendritic cell vaccines stimulate the immune response against cancer. The advantages of intelligent cell therapy include high specificity and the ability to adapt to various tumor types. Elimination of cancer tumors using spontaneous regression provides a key to understanding the natural mechanisms of resistance to cancer cells and potential methods for their natural destruction. Spontaneous regression activates the immune system, which recognizes, modifies and destroys cancer cells. Hormonal changes inside tumor cells cause their spontaneous disappearance. Technological combination of intelligent cell therapy and spontaneous regression is a promising approach in the field of oncology and regenerative medicine. Firstly, the use of cognitive and artificial intelligence systems for diagnostics, monitoring and optimization of cell therapy, secondly, the implementation of machine learning algorithms and big data analysis to identify factors predisposing to spontaneous regression, thirdly, the development of individual therapy protocols based on predictive models, which increases the effectiveness and safety of treatment. Technological combination of intelligent cell therapy and spontaneous regression mechanisms opens new horizons for personalized treatment, increasing effectiveness and minimizing side effects. Increases the effectiveness of therapy by integrating natural regression processes, predicts spontaneous regression, stimulates immune mechanisms using motivated artificial intelligence. In the future, such approaches can become the basis for innovative methods of combating oncological and other serious diseases.
Syncope is a common problem presenting in paediatric emergency department. It is a transient loss of consciousness followed by spontaneous complete recovery. It is a frightening scenario which can present at anytime in paediatric emergency. Neurally mediated syncope (NMS) is the commonest cause of syncopal attack in children and adolescents. It is benign. It should be differentiated from Cardiac syncope. Cardiac syncope is serious and need specific management of cardiac problem History taking is crucial for diagnosis. it is very important to identify red flags to differentiate benign neurally mediated syncope from severe cardiac syncope. Objective of this study is to review etiology of syncopal attacks in children, to find out different methods of evaluation and to enlist in short management strategies indicated. Authors have reviewed many recent articles on evaluation and management of paediatric syncope. It was concluded that NMS (neurally mediated syncope) is the commonest and benign cause of syncopal attack in children and adolescence. Reassurance is key to the management Some times if history is suggestive of any psychiatric pathology, early referral of patients to mental health specialist is also indicated Neurally mediated syncope can be managed with life style measures. Encourage proper diet, exercise, drinking plenty of water, adequate salt intake is also recommended.
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a kind of intractable brain tumor. The effect of surgical treatment, radiotherapy and chemotherapy is not ideal. TRF1 is one of the important components of shelterin complex, which plays an important role in human telomere protection. Previous studies have reported that inhibition of TRF1 expression can inhibit the growth and proliferation of GBM without causing serious physiological dysfunction. However, the specific mechanism of inhibition of GBM growth and proliferation caused by decreased TRF1 expression has not been fully elucidated. To further elucidate this mechanism, we knockdown TRF1 by siRNA. We detected the levels of cell senescence, autophagy through biological experiments. It has been found that the knockdown of TRF1 can cause significant increase in the aging, autophagy of GBM. In addition, SIRT-6 is a NAD+- dependent deacetylase. Previous studies have reported that SIRT-6 can maintain the stability of telomere function. Moreover, telomere dysfunction can cause the decrease of SIRT-6 expression. Therefore, we want to study the effect of SIRT-6 expression level on TRF1 knockdown induced aging, autophagy in GBM. The experimental results showed that the knockdown of TRF1 caused the decrease of SIRT-6 expression level, and the increase of SIRT-6 expression level could inhibit the aging, autophagy caused by TRF1 knockdown. This study provides a new direction for the treatment of GBM.
Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) is a critical condition often seen in children from low-resource settings. While its common presentations include edema, growth failure, and immune dysfunction, rare complications such as pericardial effusion and elevated liver enzymes can significantly impact management and outcomes. To highlight unusual presentations of SAM and emphasize the importance of early recognition and comprehensive management. This case series describes two pediatric patients with SAM and rare complications. The first case involved a 1-year 9-month-old girl with edematous SAM, presenting with generalized pitting edema, fever, and loose stools, accompanied by mild anemia, elevated liver enzymes, and a minimal pericardial effusion. The second case featured a 29-day-old neonate with Pierre Robin Syndrome and failure to thrive, presenting with feeding difficulties, respiratory symptoms, elevated liver enzymes, and a small pericardial effusion. Both children were managed according to WHO guidelines, including nutritional rehabilitation, antibiotics, and supportive care, resulting in stabilization and recovery. Pericardial effusion in SAM is a rare but significant complication linked to fluid retention and systemic inflammation, while elevated liver enzymes suggest hepatic dysfunction due to malnutrition and infection. These cases underline the critical need for multidisciplinary care, early detection, and tailored interventions to address such complications. Healthcare providers managing SAM should be vigilant for atypical presentations like pericardial effusion and elevated liver enzymes. Prompt recognition and comprehensive management can lead to improved outcomes, as demonstrated in these cases
Telemedicine, the remote delivery of healthcare services through digital technologies, has emerged as a transformative tool in modern healthcare systems worldwide. It plays a particularly crucial role in Morocco, where it helps bridge gaps in healthcare access, especially in rural and underserved areas. By enabling remote consultations, telemedicine allows specialists to diagnose, monitor, and treat patients without requiring physical presence, thereby improving the efficiency of healthcare delivery. This has proven especially beneficial for managing chronic diseases, reducing unnecessary hospital visits, and optimizing resource allocation within the healthcare system. Additionally, telemedicine minimizes logistical and financial burdens associated with medical travel, which is often a significant challenge for patients in remote regions. Despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of telemedicine in Morocco faces several barriers. Limited digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, remains a significant challenge, as does uneven internet accessibility and variable levels of digital literacy among healthcare providers and patients. So, there is a pressing need for clearer legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure patient data protection, standardize telemedicine practices, and integrate remote healthcare services into the national health system. The lack of formalized reimbursement policies and resistance to technological change among some healthcare professionals further hinder its expansion. This paper explores the current landscape of telemedicine in Morocco, highlighting its impact on healthcare accessibility and efficiency. It examines both the opportunities and challenges associated with its implementation and evaluates key policy and technological considerations necessary for its sustainable growth.
Background and justification: Infection with the hepatitis B virus is a major public health problem; However, Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are the most affected by it. The status of hepatitis B virus in pregnant women is essential for the effective management of the disease and the prevention of mother to child transmission. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of HBV markers and risk factors associated with infection in pregnant women at the Yaounde University Teaching Hospital (YUTH). Methodology: A prospective, cross multicenter study was conducted from 17 September 2018 to 25 February 2019 in 102 pregnant women aged 15 to 44 years. After obtaining ethical clearance, obstetric and sociodemographic risk factors were collected; samples were also taken and analyzed by the immuno-chromatographic method for the detection of HBsAg, for anti-HBs, HBeAg, anti-HBeAc and the anti-HBc antibodies. Statistical analysis was performed by Microsoft Excel 2016; SPSS Version 22. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 102 pregnant women, 10.78% (11/64) tested positive for HBsAg; 15.68% (16/64) had developed anti-HBs, and 26.47% (27/64) had previous contact with HBV. The highest prevalence of HBsAg was recorded in the age group 25-35 years (11.76%, P = 0.95). Similarly, the single status (P = 0.001) scarification (P = 0.00) and tattooing (P = 0.00008) were significantly associated with HBV infection and previous contact with HBV. Scarification and tattooing were significantly associated with a probable chronic hepatitis profile4 (P = 0.00009) and the inactive carrier HBsAg profile3 (P = 0.0002). Conclusion: The HBV infection is high among pregnant women at the YUTH (10.78%), especially among single pregnant women. Scarification, tattooing and no knowledge of the disease are factors significantly associated with HBV carriages (p <0.05). It is therefore necessary to introduce routine in prenatal assessment of pregnant women routine screening for HBV markers and possibly a vaccination to prevent vertical transmission (mother to child).
Aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced primarily by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are among the most significant food safety challenges worldwide. These compounds are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) due to their association with liver cancer, immune suppression, and acute toxicity. Aflatoxin contamination commonly affects staple food items such as grains, nuts, and seeds, particularly in regions with warm and humid climates. The economic burden of aflatoxin contamination extends to reduced agricultural productivity and trade restrictions, necessitating innovative and effective mitigation strategies. This review investigates the potential of probiotics as a natural solution to counter aflatoxin contamination. Probiotics, including strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, offer several mechanisms for reducing aflatoxin toxicity. These include bioadsorption, where probiotics bind aflatoxins and limit their bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract; biotransformation, involving the enzymatic conversion of aflatoxins into less toxic metabolites; and competitive exclusion, which inhibits the growth of aflatoxin-producing molds. Additionally, probiotics contribute to immune modulation, enhancing the host's capacity to counteract aflatoxin exposure. Applications of probiotics in food systems and animal feed are promising. For instance, integrating probiotics into fermented foods has been shown to reduce aflatoxin concentrations significantly. Similarly, probiotics in livestock feed can decrease the absorption of aflatoxins, improving animal health and the safety of derived products. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including strain-specific efficacy, regulatory hurdles, and consumer acceptance of probiotic-enhanced food products. Future research should prioritize the development of innovative probiotic applications, such as bioencapsulation technologies to enhance stability and targeted delivery systems for maximizing their efficacy. Long-term clinical studies are needed to assess the sustainability and safety of probiotic interventions for aflatoxin detoxification. By addressing these challenges, probiotics could play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health, ensuring food safety, and enhancing the resilience of food systems globally.
This study introduces the physical principles and safety evaluation of recombinant bovine lactoferrin (fusion factor) as an innovative biomaterial. Fusion factor is a recombinant lactoferrin expressed by fusing lactoferrin, which has natural biological defense function, with other peptide segments through sequence optimization. It is named fusion factor. Its molecular weight is about 36kDa, which is much greater than the 1kDa molecular weight limit of macromolecular transdermal absorption, so it is not absorbed when used externally on the epithelial mucosa. The lactoferrin based biological defense functional peptide segment in the fusion factor can neutralize the virus by binding to viral protein nucleic acid through the physical action of charge adsorption, and can also compete with cell receptors to inhibit virus infection in cells. The molar ratio of the transmembrane peptide (Pep-1) fragment to the carrier protein is 1:1, so only the transport protein is anchored to the cell surface, forming a physical isolation protein protective wall against viruses and bacteria, without penetrating the cell or damaging the cell membrane. The fusion factor and its derived vaginal bacteria blocking gel have no significant toxicity, sensitization, anaphylaxis or delayed hypersensitivity in vitro cell experiments, in vivo animal experiments and clinical observation tests, and have no side effects with highly safety.
Objective: Hemophilia A is an X chromosome-linked disorder caused by different abnormalities in F8 gene, resulting in the absence of impaired molecule production of factor VIII (FVIII) in the plasma, an important protein in the intrinsic coagulation pathway. The hereditary testing of the F8 gene encoding FVIII is utilized for confirmation of HA diagnosis, which fundamentally diminished serious confusions of this disease and at last leading to longer duration of life. Aims of study: Exon 17 mutations in the FVIII gene were detected and analyzed in 10 HA Iraqi patients. Patients and Methods: This study included 10 Iraqi patient with hemophilia A and 5 healthy members as control. This work done in medicine & science college laboratories as well as AL Zahra Hospital. These patients' prior diagnoses were based on DNA testing and family history. Results: During the screening for exon 17 among the HA patients, results showed 6 (60%) from 10 patients had this mutations. Discussion: It has been shown that the severity of F8 gene mutations is also correlated with their types and locations. Our data feature and information emphasize the prominence of exon 17 for its association with HA patients' positive family ancestry, and we are continue to operate for other exons mutations. Conclusions: Our findings are advantageous for prenatal diagnosis, carrier detection, and HA diagnosis. Our research also shows that patients with HA suspicion should undergo F8 gene mutation screening because there is an association between mutations and severity in our case studies.
Cymbopogon citratus has many medicinal properties: it is used to treat headaches, cough, malaria and anxiety or fear in the national dielet.The interest of this study was to evaluate the anxiolytic properties and acute toxicity of the decoction of Cymbopogon citratus leaves.C. citratus was harvested in the Wouri division, Littoral Region of Cameroon.The identification of the families of secondary metabolites was carried out on the leaves decoction through staining and precipitation tests.The animal material consisted of male and female Mus musculus Swiss mice of 18 g at 30 g over aged about 9 weeks and not previously tested.They were used for acute toxicity assessment by administering a single dose of 5000mg/kg.Then, the anxiolytic activity assessment of the decoction on basic and chronic anxiety was done using the following devices: the elevated plus maze, the open field, the hole board and the restrictor.Finally, some oxidative stress parameters such catalase, sulphoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde were measured.The extraction yield of the C. citratus decoction was 15.12%.No signs of toxicity were observed at the dose of 5000mg/kg, 14 days after treatment.The Screening of the decoction revealed the presence of saponins, phenolic compounds and sterols.The anxiolytic activity assessment of the decoction on basic and chronic anxiety through the different devices shows that the most effective dose of the C. citratus decoction was 151 mg/kg.In the case of the elevated plus maze test, there was an increase of the number of entries into the open arms, the time spent in the open arms and their respective percentages.However, there was a decrease of the number of entries into the closed arms, the time spent in the closed arms and their percentages.The number of rearing and the mass of stool produced were significantly reduced in the maze, indicating a decrease of the level of anxiety in these mice.The open field and hole board tests also showed that, the C. citratus decoction would have anxiolytic properties.This could be justified may be by the presence of saponins and phenolic compounds.The determination of oxidative stress markers showed that, mice given the decoction and diazepam had elevated catalase, sulphoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione, but their malondialdehyde was low.The results of the study showed that the decoction of Cymbopogon citratus has anxiolytic properties.
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a viral disease that primarily affects animals with cloven hooves.It is a highly contagious disease and difficult to control due to its complex epidemiological nature and poor diagnostic facilities.Thus, this paper aimed to review the epidemiology of FMD, and its economic impact on farmers, discuss the available diagnostic, and prevention and control methods that can be practiced.Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is the causative agent of FMD, and it is a single-stranded RNA virus with a positive sense that belongs to the genus Aphthovirus and the family Picornaviridae.The virus has seven serologically and genetically distinct serotypes, namely O, A, C, Asia1, SAT1, SAT2, and SAT3, as well as over 60 subtypes.The virus is inactivated by heat, UV radiation, pH levels below 6.5 or above 9, gamma irradiation, chemicals, and disinfectants, but it is almost indefinitely stable at temperatures below freezing point.The tongue, dental pad, gums, cheek, hard and soft palates, lips, nostrils, muzzle, interdigital space (between the hooves), and a coronary band of affected animals develop vesicular lesions.Viruses can be spread orally or via the respiratory tract.FMD is diagnosed based on clinical signs, and using epidemiological methods and laboratory techniques.FMD causes severe economic losses as a result of high morbidity associated with outbreak occurrences, limiting the introduction of improved production technologies in the area, restrictions on international trade, and costs associated with the application of control measures.Some of the control and prevention methods for FMD are vaccination, animal movement control, physical separation from wildlife, and symptomatic treatment.But due to its complex epidemiological nature, limited diagnostic capabilities, and no cross-immunity between strains, FMD was difficult to control.Therefore, awareness creation among animal owners about the disease, and possible prevention and control methods that can be practiced is required.And also, research in the development of a multivalent and protective vaccine is recommended.
Neonatal outcomes for preterm infants vary from region to region in the world.In the last few decades, there have been major improvements in neonatal outcomes of premature infants in the developed countries; but not so much in developing countries.In Zambia, the preterm birth rate is estimated to be 13% of all births, and each year there are 77, 600 preterm births of which 6,800 die due to preterm complications.Preterm birth complications are the leading cause of death among children under 5 years of age and many survivors face a lifetime of disability.This study was aimed at identifying determinants of neonatal outcomes for preterm infants admitted to the NICU at Ndola Teaching Hospital.The research design employed was the quantitative with an observational, panel longitudinal approach.Conducted from February, 2021 to June 2021.Study participants were selected using convenience sampling.The sample size was 173 but two were lost to follow-up, out of these, 108 were successfully discharged from hospital, eight survived with complications and 55 died within the neonatal period.Data were analysed using SPSS version 23 Software and presented in table forms.The determinants of neonatal outcomes were examined using, Chi-square test and multivariate multinomial logistic regression to control for confounders.Findings revealed that infants who were born by caesarean section had 54.93% chances of survival compared to those who underwent vaginal delivery.Infants nursed in incubators were at higher risk of dying and developing complications, compared to those who were not, with p-value <.0001.Infants with 4-10 Apgar scores were less likely (OR = 0.170 (95% CI = [0, 0.675]) and 0.053 (95% CI = [1.238,0.0755]) to develop complications and less likely (OR = 0.053, (95% CI = [0.038,0.19]) and (OR = 0.106, 95% CI = 0.017, 0.741]) to die within the neonatal period, than those with 0-3 Apgar score.Preterm infants with birth weights greater than 1,500 grams were less likely (OR = 0.209, 95%CI = [0.059,0.741]) to die during the neonatal period compared to those weighing between 500 to 1500 grams.Service and health related factors such as failure to suction the infant at birth when needed, nursing infants in incubators, low birth weight and low Apgar score at one and five minutes were determinants of poor neonatal outcomes.In order to improve survival rates for preterm infants, interventions should be directed on the mentioned factors in their management.
Due to importance of sterilization department design and its relation to rest of sections in hospitals, selection of department location together with internal pathways are very critical issue in hospital design. To minimize the time of sterilization and comply with Infection control rules, the design of sterilization department should follow some specs and guidelines that to facilitate the operation processes and to have maximum effectiveness. In this research, some designs have been studied considering the hospital capacities (Low and medium), available space area for department, operating theater department (number of operating rooms), waste management in addition to sterilization equipment capacities that to optimize the required spaces and area that fit the needed guidelines. The results of this study are to evaluate the current designs and their relations to different departments and indicate the important points of design in addition to illustrating the optimum design for area and cost after applying logistic regression. The results reveal that hospitals with under 100 patient beds capacity and with a maximum of four operating rooms can fit their required functions and guidelines in only two sub-sections areas of CSSD in about 35-50 M2. The two sub-sections are one area for decontamination and washing and the second area is for packing and sterilization together with storage area.
